Chardonnay

One of the most versatile and well-loved international varieties, here is a grape that can turn its hand to a plethora of dry white wine styles. From the steely purity of a refreshing Chablis with its zippy citrus and green fruit profile produced by the likes of William Fèvre and Raveneau, to the luxurious oaked creaminess of a New World Chardonnay. Think Russian River Valley and Napa Valley in California for an array of orchard fruits, wild honey and apple blossom. Here is a varietal that can truly express winemaking its affinity for oak gives vanilla and toasted complexity whilst a creamy, buttery mouthfeel is often the result of malolactic conversion and lees stirring.

For a classic Chardonnay to withstand the test of time, look no further than a Burgundian Bâtard, Chassagne or Chevalier Montrachet from big names such as Jadot and Bouchard. Revel in the beauteous complexity of a Corton Charlemagne from Pillot or Drouhin. Discover what Chardonnay can do on English soil or venture to warmer climes such as Martinborough in New Zealand, Margaret River and Victoria in Australia. Explore the white peach intensity of Chardonnay grown in the Italian Langhe and be surprised by what South Africa is doing with the varietal in Walker Bay. And don't forget the wonders of Chardonnay-based sparkling wines as both single varietal wines (Blanc de Blancs) and in blends with Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.